Mathew “Wayne” Schatz, of Benton City WA, formally of Clarkston MI & Millersburg MI passed away on April 20, 2022, at the age of 87.

Wayne is survived by his wife of 64 years, Florence Frame Schatz of Benton City, WA. his 3 sons; Mathew “Jeff” (Valerie) of Benton City, WA., Steve (Anthony Sharrah) of La Center, WA. and Tim (Lynn) Schatz of Vancouver, WA., as well as his brother Dave (Esther) Schatz of Jackson, MI. Wayne adored 7 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and 1 great great granddaughter. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Mathew “Matt” and Ina Schatz, sister Mildred Cromwell, and brothers Lee Schatz and Carroll Schatz.

While the dates, 12/26/1934 – 4/20/2022 are important, the dash between those years is just as important. That dash represents 87 years of living, loving and a whole lot more.

Wayne was born on December 26, 1934, in Arab, MO and lived there until he was about 2 years old. The family then moved to MI, and he lived in Pontiac, Davisburg and Holly areas until he married Florence, the love of his life, he then moved to Clarkston in 1957. Shortly after marrying, he was drafted into the Army until 1959.

Those 87 years included spoiling his wife, raising 3 amazing sons that he was proud of and working as an electrician at General Motors Corporation for 42 years. He also passed his passion for hunting, fishing, golfing, and snowmobiling down to his children and grandchildren. He instilled respect in his boys, how to have and show respect to others, to never give up on your dreams and always strive for what you desire. To believe in yourself and stand up for what you believe in and the value of hard work and honesty.

After retirement, Wayne & Florence moved to Millersburg, MI and built a log home where he enjoyed sitting on the deck and enjoying nature for 20 years. Wayne loved listening to and singing bluegrass, country and hymns, as well as other church songs. He attended Williams Lake Church of the Nazarene while living in Clarkston and Ocqueoc Baptist Church in Millersburg.

A memorial service will be held in lower Michigan July 23, 2022. Location to be determined.